Sedation can make dental care much more manageable when anxiety, a sensitive gag reflex, or difficulty remaining comfortable has made treatment challenging in the past. Knowing what to expect beforehand can also remove some of the uncertainty surrounding your visit. Your exact preparation will depend on the sedation method, your health, and the procedure being performed.

Preparing for Dental Sedation in Portland, OR

At Valley Dental Works, Dr. Daniel Miller, Dr. Grant Alexander, and Dr. Jared Young help patients from Happy Valley and throughout the Portland area receive dental care in a comfortable, supportive environment. The practice offers nitrous oxide, oral conscious sedation, and IV sedation, providing varying levels of relaxation for different patient and treatment needs.

Preparation starts before the day of treatment. Your dental team will review relevant health information and explain what your particular sedation plan requires. This is also the time to ask questions about anything you’re unsure of so you aren’t trying to figure out important details on the morning of your appointment.

Arrange Transportation If Required

Whether you need someone to drive you depends on the sedation method you’re receiving. Patients using nitrous oxide can typically leave after its effects have cleared and may be able to drive themselves, while oral conscious sedation can remain in the body for hours and requires transportation to and from the appointment. Patients receiving IV sedation should also follow the transportation and supervision instructions given to them in advance.

If a driver is required, arrange one before your appointment rather than assuming you’ll be able to find a ride afterward. Ask your dental team whether your driver needs to remain at the office and whether someone should stay with you once you return home.

Follow Your Eating and Drinking Instructions Carefully

Don’t assume the fasting rules for one form of sedation apply to another. Instructions about food and liquids can vary according to the sedation method, procedure, appointment time, and individual health considerations.

Your dental team will tell you whether you can eat beforehand and when you should stop eating or drinking if restrictions are necessary. If you accidentally eat or drink outside the instructions you’ve been given, tell the office rather than withholding that information or deciding for yourself that it won’t matter.

Discuss Your Medications Before Your Appointment

Provide an accurate list of prescription medications, over-the-counter products, vitamins, and supplements you currently take. Some medications may interact with sedatives or influence how your dental team approaches treatment.

Don’t stop a prescribed medication simply because you’re having dental sedation unless the appropriate healthcare professional has specifically instructed you to do so. Likewise, don’t take additional medication to calm yourself before the appointment unless it has been approved. If anything about your medications changes between your consultation and procedure, let our office know.

Dress for Comfort and Practicality

Choose comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that won’t feel restrictive while you’re sitting in the dental chair. Keep accessories simple, and follow any directions you’re given regarding jewelry, contact lenses, makeup, or other personal items.

Plan for a Quiet Recovery Afterward

Before leaving home, think about what you’ll need when you return. Depending on the sedation used, you may feel tired or less alert for a period after treatment, so avoid scheduling demanding responsibilities until you know what restrictions apply to you.

Have any recommended supplies, appropriate foods or drinks, and your post-treatment instructions readily available. Most importantly, follow the specific guidance you’re given about driving, work, exercise, childcare, important decisions, and other activities after sedation.

Get Started at Happy Valley Dental Works

If you’re considering a significant dental procedure in Portland, Oregon, schedule a consultation at Valley Dental Works in Happy Valley, Oregon. Dr. Daniel Miller, Dr. Grant Alexander, Dr. Jared Young, and the Valley Dental Works team can discuss your sedation options, answer your questions, and provide preparation instructions tailored to your upcoming treatment.